A postcard from Piazza Duomo, Florence
When I arrive in Piazza Duomo that view takes my breath away. What was your reaction to seeing the Duomo?
If you missed the previous Postcards, you can catch up with it here!
I lived in a small town near Florence for 18 years then, I must admit, after meeting Giulia my routine changed.
In recent years, pandemic excluded, we don't go to Florence very often. Mainly because it’s overcrowded with tourists. From Easter until October, the center of Florence is off limit
So, during the low season, we always visit a museum we haven't seen in a long time (a few years ago we visited the Uffizi in January, we were almost alone), we go out to try a new restaurant for dinner, or more simply to do some shopping.
Now more than before, when I arrive in Piazza Duomo that view takes my breath away. It is probably because I rarely go there, and it is like going there for the first time. Such majesty appears in front of you, and you are left speechless.Â
Have you ever visited Florence? What was your reaction to seeing the Duomo? Does it also happen to you in your city to have your breath taken away when you visit a particular spot? Tell me about it in the comments.
I am ready to bookmark on Google Maps all the places you will suggest to visit!
I have to tell you a secret: I have never climbed the Duomo nor the bell tower (Campanile di Giotto). In Florence, legend has it that if you climb the Duomo stairs when you are at the university, you won’t graduate. But I am not at risk anymore, so maybe next winter I will climb the 463 steps to admire the view from up there.
P.S. When I think that the Duomo has been there for more than 550 years, and we can't fix all the bumps in a road, it makes me laugh (not).
Secret #2: If you visit Florence in the next few months, stop for ice cream at La Sorbettiera, one of the best gelato shops in town. Our favorite flavors? Lemon and sage for me, or Catrame (dark chocolate) for Giulia!
P.S. #2: If you need a guide for a tour in Florence, you can contact our friend Molly McIlwrath: http://letterartemente.com
I first saw the Duomo aged 13 when my family moved to Florence from London. Was awestruck! Still am whenever I see it!
I visited Florence & the Duomo with my husband first, celebrating our 30th anniversary and it did take our breath away! The following year, when our daughter spent a semester in Florence, her apartment was on a side street across from the duomo, so i just HAD to spend a week with her😎 It was so fun to see the city through her eyes, to shop at the local mercado and to cook in her kitchen! Can't wait to go back again!!